Expert Seeks National Watchdog To Regulate DisCos

Proposal for Multi-Stakeholder Monitoring Body

A power sector stakeholder, Mr. Princewill Okorie, has called on the Federal Government to establish a national monitoring team to supervise the operations of Electricity Distribution Companies (DisCos).

Speaking in Abuja, Okorie said the proposed body should include representatives from government agencies, civil society organisations, electricity consumers, private sector players, and institutions implementing power sector policies.

He said the initiative would strengthen transparency and accountability in a sector that has faced persistent public criticism.

Disconnection and Due Process

Okorie alleged that some distribution companies disconnect consumers without adhering to due process.

He referenced Section 36 of the Constitution, which guarantees fair hearing, arguing that customers accused of offences such as meter bypass are often penalised without proper investigation or legal proceedings.

“The way these DisCos operate sometimes gives the impression they are above the law,” he said, warning that failure to address these concerns could erode public trust.

Billing, Capping and Regulatory Compliance

The electricity advocate also raised concerns over alleged overbilling and non-compliance with the capping regulations introduced by the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC).

According to him, some DisCos have failed to implement adequate consumer education programmes, despite regulatory directives.

He also criticised the classification of customers into supply bands, alleging that the Band A framework is sometimes used to justify uneven electricity distribution.

Okorie questioned repeated claims by distribution firms that they operate at a loss.

“If they have consistently been operating at a loss since 2013, how have they sustained operations?” he asked.

Sector Responsibilities

Following the privatisation of the power sector, 11 distribution companies were established to manage electricity distribution nationwide. Their responsibilities include maintaining and upgrading infrastructure such as lines, transformers, and substations to ensure safe and reliable power supply.

Okorie maintained that creating a national monitoring body would help address systemic challenges and promote improved service delivery for electricity consumers across the country.